Familyfest helps new Clemson University staffers connect

Caroline Scott, 5, of Anderson sits in the arm of the Clemson Tiger mascot as her sister Taylor Grace Scott, 7, walks closer Sunday at the third annual Clemson Familyfest at the Hendrix Student Center in Clemson.

Aaron Cokley of Cayce, a senior at Clemson University in the Call Me Mister program, plays a toss game with the Clemson Tiger mascot Sunday at the third annual Clemson Familyfest at the Hendrix Student Center.

Brock Miller, 5, of Pendleton bounces in the Space Walk inflatable play area with Clemson All Girl Cheerleader Squad members, sophomore Tayler Easton, middle, and freshman Amber Materaud, right, Sunday at the third annual Clemson Familyfest at the Hendrix Student Center in Clemson.

CLEMSON UNIVERSITY - Peter Li, who has been looking for an artistic outlet for his two children, watched them participate in a crafts session during the third annual Clemson Familyfest Sunday.

Li, executive director for International Services at Clemson University, said he is entering his second year at the university. The Familyfest is held for all staff members but helps to connect new staff with services that are available in the community.

"It like it," Li said. "It is wonderful for people with kids."

He enjoyed the event with his wife, Jane, his 13-year-old daughter and 9-year-old son.

Thirty businesses and organizations came to Sunday's event, said Linda Wofford, director of presidential events for the university. More than 500 people came out for Familyfest, which was held at the Hendrix Student Center.

She said all Clemson University faculty and staff were invited to the event. The Familyfest included a performance from the Clemson cheerleaders, an arts and crafts presentation from The Arts Center in Clemson and an indoor performance from bluegrass band Any Old Time.

"We try to gear it to where there is something for everyone," Wofford said.

Linda Rice, a risk manager at Clemson, watched her grandsons Sam, 7, and Ben, 4, play with a robotics display Sunday. She has been at the school for nearly 30 years and knows the event means a lot to the community.

"It gives us unity," Rice said. "It provides friends and fellowship."

Sarah Hovan, box office manager for the Brooks Center for the Performing Arts, ran a booth at Familyfest. She let residents know about the upcoming performances at the center.

She said she enjoyed the event.

"It is awesome," Hovan said. "It is an excellent way to let the Clemson community know what is going on."

Mike Nebesky, a procurement director for Clemson, came to the event with his wife, Marie, and their two young children. He said the faculty and staff are one big family and he is glad school is back in session.

"It is great," Nebesky said. "This is the most exciting time of year for everyone on campus."